Digital Television Bill Will Help First Responders, Speed New Technology to Consumers

Benefits of the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act: 1) Making communities safer. Some police, fire departments, and rescue squads already have radio equipment to communicate over the spectrum the broadcasters are supposed to return—they are just awaiting the turnover. Many more public safety officials cannot purchase equipment or begin planning without a date certain. Notably, last year the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (or 9/11 Commission) recommended the expedited return of this spectrum to improve homeland security. 2) Bringing new services to consumers and lowering prices. The commercial uses for the spectrum are practically limitless, such as accelerated deployment of wireless broadband capabilities (especially to rural areas) and more competitive choices for high-speed voice, video and data applications. 3) Reducing the federal deficit. This particular spectrum is highly valuable, called “beachfront property” by some, and its auction will bring billions of dollars in additional revenue to the U.S. Treasury to reduce the deficit. Several studies suggest that the auction could raise $20-30 billion, and garner hundreds of billions of dollars in additional benefits and savings to consumers and the U.S. economy. 4) Growing the economy and creating new jobs. The development of products and services to utilize this spectrum will improve America’s global competitiveness and result in significant investment, boosting our economy and creating new jobs.
http://energycommerce.house.gov/108/News/12192005_1750.htm
* House Approves Medicaid Reform, Digital TV
http://energycommerce.house.gov/108/News/12192005_1748.htm